Purchasing a new home is exciting, especially if you’re a first-time homebuyer. A first home often signifies a new chapter in your life, and there’s a lot of preparation involved with flying the nest — especially those starting from scratch when it comes to purchasing furniture, appliances and more. To help simplify this process, we’ve put together a few tips on what to buy before and after moving into your new home.
5+ Months Before Moving In: Purchase Small, Easy-To-Store Pieces
There are a lot of small accessories and appliances that contribute to how well a home functions, from cutlery and cups to toasters and coffee machines and toothbrush holders and soap pumps. The good news is that pieces like this are relatively inexpensive (especially if sold in sets) and are easy to stash away until needed, which makes them a great investment months prior to moving into your new home.
1-3 Months Before Moving In: Looking For Staple Furniture Pieces
Larger furniture pieces — like a bed, sofa, stove or fridge — are ones you can’t go without in a home. If you aren’t bringing your old furniture or appliances with you, start browsing for new ones now. Depending on stock, it may take weeks (or sometimes months) until the piece arrives at your doorstep. Some retailers show what they have available online, including estimated shipping dates for items that need to be ordered in. Make sure you check the room measurements in your home floor plan package to ensure that your new purchase will fit comfortably in the space.
Don’t Forget: Set Up Your Service Providers
No one wants to move into a home with no cable or internet connection, so it’s a good idea to start looking into service providers now. Meet with several companies to compare pricing and see which one will best suit your needs, then schedule your installation appointment at least 2-3 weeks in advance of your closing date to ensure your services are activated in a timely manner.
After Moving In: Cozy Up Your Space
The most exciting part of furnishing a new home is undoubtedly decorating it. And while decorative accents are what add personality and bring a space to life, these pieces aren’t home essentials, so don’t fuss filling your home with them right away. Build your collections out overtime, and mix in cool store-bought pieces with sentimental accents — including family photographs and heirlooms — and cool finds, like souvenirs picked up from travels abroad.